C vs MA: Which Is the Better Dividend Stock?
As of September 2026, MA (Mastercard Incorporated) screens as the stronger dividend stock, winning 5 of 8 head-to-head metrics. C offers the higher yield at 2.03%, MA has the higher dividend-safety score, and C trades at the larger discount to fair value (+36%).
| Metric | C | MA |
|---|---|---|
| Forward yield | 2.03% | 0.62% |
| Annual dividend | $2.68 | $3.48 |
| Payout ratio | 26% | 18% |
| Years of growth | 3 yr | 14 yr |
| 5-yr dividend growth | 2.6% | 13.7% |
| 5-yr total return | 91% | 68% |
| Dividend safety score | 80 (A) | 88 (A) |
| Fair value estimate | $179.36 | $574.22 |
| Upside to fair value | +36% | +2% |
| Frequency | quarterly | quarterly |
| Market cap | $221.0B | $495.2B |
| P/E ratio | 14.2 | 31.1 |
Higher yield
C
2.03%
Safer dividend
MA
Grade A
Faster growth
MA
13.7%
Better value
C
+36% upside
C vs MA — FAQ
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